After the Eight Talents of Hedong were scattered, Qiu Yuehai returned to being a fisherman. Every day he caugh…
After the Eight Talents of Hedong were scattered, Qiu Yuehai returned to being a fisherman. Every day he caught three fish. One he ate, one he released, and one he sold.
From selling fish so often, he grew familiar with the fishmonger. One day, the shopkeeper asked his name.
"The name's Qiu Yuehai."
"Hmm, that sounds familiar... You wouldn't be that Hero Qiu from the Eight Talents, would you?"
"Same name, that's all. Do I look like a hero to you?"
The two burst out laughing.
Qiu Yuehai then used the copper coins from selling fish to buy a jug of wine and staggered home, swinging the bottle.
After the Eight Talents went their separate ways, each made their own choice—and this was his. He had always been an ordinary man. By some twist of fate, he'd briefly shone like a passing illusion. Now that the light had faded, he was still himself.
As for his old comrades-in-arms, Qiu Yuehai grinned and poured a libation to the heavens. Come find me for a drink someday!
Just remember—you're looking for a fisherman named Qiu Yuehai, not Qiu Yuehai the jianghu swordsman! Some people and some stories ought to end at their brightest moment.